Reopened Investigation Reaffirms Unlawful Discrimination Against Romani Gypsies and Irish Travellers

Immediate release

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has reaffirmed findings of unlawful race discrimination by Pontins against Romani Gypsies and Irish Travellers, following the reopening of its investigation into the holiday park operator.

The case, which has become one of the most significant legal findings relating to discrimination against Romani Gypsies and Irish Travellers in the UK, confirmed that Pontins operated discriminatory practices, including the use of an “undesirable guest list” targeting individuals based on ethnicity and family names. These practices resulted in refused bookings, cancellations, and exclusion from services, in breach of the Equality Act 2010.

The Traveller Movement welcomes the reaffirmation of these findings and the continued scrutiny applied by the EHRC.

The Traveller Movement, alongside other organisations and individuals, has played a key role over a number of years in raising concerns, supporting evidence, and advocating for accountability in relation to discriminatory practices affecting Romani Gypsies and Irish Travellers.

Yvonne MacNamara, Chief Executive Officer of the Traveller Movement, said:

“The reopening of this investigation and the reaffirmation of unlawful discrimination is a powerful reminder that these practices were real, systemic, and unacceptable. Romani (Gypsies) and Irish Travellers have long experienced discrimination that is too often overlooked. We welcome the EHRC’s continued action in holding organisations to account.  This outcome reflects the sustained efforts of communities, advocates, and organisations working together to ensure these injustices are not ignored.

However, this cannot end here. It must lead to lasting change across the sector, with stronger safeguards to ensure that no community is treated in this way again.”

As part of its enforcement action, Pontins has been required to issue a formal apology, remove discriminatory practices, and implement a binding action plan to prevent future breaches.

The Traveller Movement emphasises that this case sends a clear message across the UK: discrimination against Romani Gypsies and Irish Travellers is unlawful and will be challenged.

The organisation remains committed to working collaboratively with communities, regulators, and industry to ensure equal treatment, dignity, and respect for all.

Contacts
020 7607 2002
policylead@travellermovement.org.uk

RELEASE ENDS

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Notes to Editor
* The Traveller Movement (TM) is a national community development policy and voice charity who campaign against discrimination, promote inclusion, participation and community engagement for the Irish Traveller and Gypsy communities in Britain. TM is proud to work in partnership with the Romani (Gypsy), Roma and Irish Traveller communities together with service providers and policy makers across the UK to better promote social inclusion and community cohesion.